Question removing varnish

[Ken Kirkeby]

My wife changed her mind and wants the oil-base varnish (clear gloss) removed from a side table. I'm very new to finishing. Should I use something to wipe it off (mineral spirits?) or sand?

Thanks.

[Jim Becker]

If it is cured, you'll have to use stripper and/or sand it off. Mineral spirits is not going to do anything to the cured finish other than make it clean and shiny... ;)

[Howard Acheson]

First, what do you plan to do after you remove the current finish? The reason for asking is that there are some choices for removing the finish but knowing what road you plan to go down helps to recommend the best thing to remove what's on there now.

Also, what is the wood you used?